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C15-23 ALKANE.

Valuable / SOLVENT

A highly stable, hydrocarbon-based emollient that serves as a lightweight alternative to traditional oils. It provides a sophisticated, non-greasy finish while significantly enhancing the spreadability and application experience of complex skincare formulas.

Emollient Solvent Texture Enhancer Occlusive

Science

It functions primarily as an occlusive emollient, forming a breathable protective film that reinforces the skin's lipid barrier to mitigate transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Furthermore, its non-polar nature allows it to act as an efficient carrier, ensuring the uniform distribution of active ingredients and mineral UV filters across the skin surface.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤60%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Demonstrated moisturization performance comparable to petrolatum over 6 hours, while offering superior slip and a smoother post-absorption feel.
  2. 02 Reduced hair surface roughness by 51.8% after a single application, increasing to 62.4% after ten uses.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

As a structural and sensory ingredient rather than a primary bio-active, it is rarely 'dusted' for marketing purposes. It is typically utilized at functional levels to achieve specific textural benchmarks.


The Formula

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 3 – 12
0 7 14

Stability

Exceptional chemical inertness; it is hydrolysis-stable and maintains its structural integrity across an extreme pH spectrum, making it versatile for both low-pH exfoliants and high-pH treatments.

Synergies

  • Mineral UV filters (Zinc Oxide/Titanium Dioxide)
  • Lipophilic active ingredients
  • Vegetable waxes

Conflicts

  • Highly polar solvents
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
60%
Pregnancy
Safe
Sensitization risk Low

Recognized as a low-hazard ingredient (EWG 1) and approved for topical use in Canada's NHPD. Purity standards are strictly maintained with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) kept below 0.03%.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Valuable

An excellent, inert texture enhancer and moisture-locking agent that provides petrolatum-level hydration with a modern, elegant finish.


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